Read what I publish.

I keep the list here whether a piece appears on West of Obvious or somewhere else. Each link opens at the original publication.

01 / West of Obvious

Where the System Becomes Visible

An introduction to the publication and the operating questions it follows.

Read at West of Obvious
02 / Hiring Integrity

Your Interview Is Not an Escape Room

An interview should test the work under conditions that resemble the job. Candidates need the relevant context, allowed tools and a fair way to provide the same evidence.

Read at West of Obvious
03 / Hiring Integrity

Don't Blame It on the Algorithm

Screening software can misread an accurate application. Employers still own the rejection and need a way to correct the record before the application is closed.

Read at West of Obvious
04 / Hiring Integrity

If You Can Use the Work, Pay for the Work

A hiring exercise can test a relevant skill. When it produces work the employer could use, the employer should pay for it.

Read at West of Obvious
05 / Hiring Integrity

You Prepared for the Interview They Described

When the panel changes after preparation, the company has changed the test. The same is true when the topic or format changes, or when the standard shifts.

Read at West of Obvious
06 / Hiring Integrity

The Posting Is Live. But Is the Job Real?

Before asking people to apply, a company should be able to describe the job it can offer and how applications will be reviewed.

Read at West of Obvious
07 / Hiring Integrity

The Hiring Market Is Charging Candidates for Corporate Indecision

Companies control the opening and every change that follows. Candidates absorb the cost.

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08 / Developer adoption

Most Developer Adoption Problems Are Not Awareness Problems

Before buying more reach, find out where the developers you want already exist.

Read at West of Obvious